The 61-year-old is expected to finish Magufuli’s second five-year term, which will run until 2025.

Hassan who spoke during the swearing-in ceremony which took place at Dar es Salaam promised to be honest, obey and protect the constitution of Tanzania.

With her swearing-in, Hassan becomes the second serving female head of state in Africa alongside Ethiopia’s President Sahle-Work Zewde, whose role is mainly ceremonial.

“I, Samia Suluhu Hassan, promise to be honest and obey and protect the constitution of Tanzania.

“I also promise to continue the legacy of patriotism to the African course which the late Magufuli laid down to the best of my capacity and with the help of the good people of Tanzania,” she said.